Health

Campus Closure

What will happen after the holidays, on 20
April?

On Monday 20 April, Term 2 will commence in the form of Digital Bialik for our Prep to Year 12 students. We will also have a very limited on-campus provision for children of families who have no capacity for any responsible adult to be at home and for children deemed vulnerable by either DHHS or the College’s wellbeing team. These revised provisions have been put in place following the government guidelines and expectations and balancing the needs of students, families, staff and the community. The College is also required by the government to open Creche and Kinder at no charge to parents, with funding capped at around 30% of previous income.

What should we do in the meantime, and how can
we support each other?

Friends, now is the time for us to pull
together as a community, support each other with words and with deeds. I am
reminded of the phrase the one thing you are in control of, is how you
choose to react.

These are challenging and testing times. We
need to be patient with each other and recognise the complexities of our family
and work lives. We are fortunate to be a values-driven community and it is
during times of distress that these values are both tested and prized. Our
Bialik values of Respect, Integrity, Perseverance, Empathy and Responsibility
should frame our actions. We should recall the advice of Rabbi Hillel,
paraphrased as treat others as we would like to be treated ourselves.

In other words, share resources with those less
fortunate or equipped than ourselves; be in contact with family and friends as
we can help each other both practically and emotionally. Give praise. Follow
the advice of the health professionals; wash hands for at least 20 full seconds
regularly and avoid touching our faces; wipe down surfaces regularly and ensure
we treat each other with courtesy, care and love, no matter how stressed or
anxious we may feel.